Trade bodies partner with DWP to push careers

Leading hospitality groups are urging businesses to make the recruitment and development of new workers a priority, in response to an impending hospitality skills shortage. The British Hospitality Association (BHA), The Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers (ALMR) and British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) have partnered with unemployment charity, Springboard and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to deliver the 2018 Hospitality Works, a month-long campaign launching on 7 February 2018. The Hospitality Works campaign aims to increase the number of people moving into hospitality jobs by inspiring jobseekers to take up a career in hospitality. By bringing together leading hospitality employers the initiative strives to increase awareness of the sector. Over the course of the month, more than 600 Job Centre Plus outlets throughout the UK will be promoting new roles in the hospitality industry. Businesses will participate by offering taster visits for jobseekers, local jobs fairs and work experience opportunities. Ufi Ibrahim, British Hospitality Association CEO said: “Initiatives such as Hospitality Works are great opportunities to highlight some of the great careers available in the sector regardless of whether your interest lies in numbers, people, organisation or creativity. “The hospitality industry offers an alternative to those who don’t want to take the academic route, providing its workers with numerous, transferable skills. It is an exceptional industry where you can start at any level and work your way up.” Kate Nicholls, ALMR chief executive, said: “The campaign is a fantastic way to encourage young people to take up a career within the UK’s hospitality sector. A career in our sector can be long and rewarding, but we need to work proactively to emphasise the benefits and opportunities of working with us, and act to ensure that look to us as a viable and exciting career option. “With unemployment at a record low and with a future immigration policy yet to be determined, it is crucial that we begin the work of recruiting now, to ensure the continued success of the sector.”